London Scottish’s new head coach James Buckland has vowed to honour the legacy of his predecessor Simon Amor.

Buckland has held the role on a stand-in basis since Amor’s departure in September to coach the England 7s side.

But the 32-year-old was announced as the permanent incumbent this week, putting pen to paper on a two-year deal on Monday.

Together with backs coach Mike Friday, defence coach Serge Betsen and head of strength and conditioning Tim Harper, Buckland has led the exiles to the top half of the Championship this season with a top four finish not out of reach.

He said: “When Simon [Amor] left at the beginning of the season the whole squad and backroom staff pulled together and continued to build on the foundations left by him.

“I’m excited at being given the opportunity to be head coach for the next two years, and I hope to build on Simon’s hard work.”

The former England Saxons hooker spent the majority of his playing career at Leicester Tigers before joining London Scottish during the 2012/13 season as forwards coach to work alongside Amor.

Since then he has established himself as one of the most promising young coaches in the country.

Buckland added: “This is now our third season in the Championship and the progress made on and off the field during that time has been immense.

“We have enjoyed a successful season so far and will continue to fight for a place in the end of season play-offs.

“However I'm already looking towards next season and building the best possible squad for the next campaign.”

Ready: Paul Spivey is prepared for the clash with in-form Leeds Carnegie this weekend

Meanwhile second row forward Paul Spivey admits London Scottish will look to replicate their performance last time out against Leeds Carnegie when the two lock horns again at Headingley on Sunday.

Scottish produced their best rugby of the season against Leeds back in November to secure a 26-15 win – their first ever Championship victory over the Yorkshire outfit.

However, Leeds are the in-form side in the Championship having scored 23 tries in their past three fixtures.

Spivey said: “I remember the game in November well. It was a thoroughly enjoyable match to play in and we played some great rugby, especially in the first half.

“We can take heart from that and look to perform at that level again.

“It will be a difficult test and we will need to be at the top of our game to get a result.

“Leeds are doing very well, they are a well resourced club who are striving to get back to the top flight.”